The 2026 edition of the Lagos Fanti Carnival has officially commenced at Tafawa Balewa Square (TBS), drawing revellers, cultural groups, and tourists for a vibrant celebration of history and identity.

Held annually on Easter Monday, the carnival began with processions from historic communities across Lagos Island, including Campos, Lafiaji, Okoo-Faji, Okepopo, and Isale-Eko.

Participants, dressed in flamboyant costumes, made their way toward the main arena, creating a spectacular procession.

This year’s edition, themed “A Homecoming of Heritage,” celebrates the deep-rooted cultural ties between Nigeria and Brazil, reflecting the legacy of Afro-Brazilian returnees, also known as the Aguda, who introduced the carnival tradition to Lagos in the 19th century.

Early scenes at the venue showcased a dazzling display of colour, music, and dance, with performers adorned in elaborate outfits featuring feathers, beads, and sequins, accompanied by indigenous Yoruba rhythms.

Performances en route to the venue and cultural displays highlighted traditional storytelling and ancestral expressions, while live music performances continued to energise the crowd throughout the day.

The carnival also aims to promote tourism, support creative industries, and create economic opportunities across Lagos State.

To ensure safety and smooth coordination, security personnel were deployed across the venue, and several roads leading to Tafawa Balewa Square were temporarily closed.

The Fanti Carnival remains one of Lagos’ most celebrated cultural festivals, symbolising resilience, identity, and the enduring connection between West Africa and the Afro-Brazilian diaspora.

In an interview with Channels Television, Captain of the Lafiaji community, Mayegun Musi Owolabi, said preparations for this year’s Fanti Carnival were extensive, reflecting the community’s strong commitment to preserving its heritage.

According to Owolabi, the Fanti Carnival is more than just a celebration, describing it as a vital expression of “cultural preservation rooted in history.” He noted that the community has remained faithful to long-standing traditions, maintaining practices passed down through generations without alteration.

He added that the carnival continues to promote harmony among participants, emphasising that the association’s primary objective is “to foster unity and peace within the community.”

Owolabi further explained that while the community traditionally marks major festive periods such as Easter, Christmas, and New Year with cultural displays, the inclusion of the carnival in the Lagos State Government’s official calendar has further strengthened its significance.

He also highlighted that the community’s colours are closely “associated with the Easter celebration,” noting that members are “fully prepared” to showcase their rich cultural heritage during the carnival.

(Channels)

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